Will I be as slick and chic as the interior? Photo courtesy of SalonNiccio.com

Like many travelers, taking care of myself is rarely a high priority. Constantly being on the road, catching early morning trains and late night buses, rarely lends itself to looking good, no matter how much fun the adventures might be. But I live in Ottawa, a government town, and important meetings can come up at any time. It was a situation just like this that brought me to Robbie and George at Salon Niccio for the first time.

I had recently finished one contract and was enjoying some downtime when the chance for a new position fell into my lap. It was a wonderful opportunity, but it required a new look – and fast! I needed to look polished and professional and ready to stand in front of a crowd at a minute’s notice. But I also needed a look that even a harried traveler like myself could handle.

Here's my "before" - typical flat travel hair, with a nice patch of grey! At least I was having fun!

I'm trusting Robbie with my dilapidated hair.

And really hoping George can do something about the grey!

Salon owner Robbie, and his talented colourist George, immediately took me under their wing. They instantly understood that I needed a new look for a new job and I loved that they consulted with each other as much as they did with me. I’ve never before seen the colorist and master stylist work together like that before, discussing the best way to combine a new cut and new color, debating the ideal placement for new highlights in relation to the layers of the cut, and more. I had the overwhelming sense of “these guys know what they’re talking about” and it was so reassuring to see them look at my hair and talk about it like a work of art, something they were sculpting together. I know I’m not the only one who feels this way. Over the past year I’ve happened to be in the salon when new customers come in and it’s amazing to see their anxiety and tension melt away.

A sleek new cut with no grey in sight!

Still holding up weeks later while I'm on the road!

I was thrilled with that initial haircut and color, but I’ve been going back for much more. I love that the staff remember me and are always happy to see me. Robbie and George always welcome me like a family member. Even while the salon buzzes with activity, I’m always well taken care of. Some of the staff and I have bonded over our love of running and we’ve had lots of conversations about our training for the Ottawa Race Weekend and Run for the Cure, a charity the salon is passionate about.

Like many people who travel, my schedule is constantly changing, but Robbie and George are always able to accommodate me. This flexibility and willingness to accommodate any client is what makes Salon Niccio the perfect stop for Ottawa’s never-ending stream of visitors who need a swift trim or just a quick blowout on route to a sudden presentation or meeting. The salon is perfectly situated in the heart of the ByWard Market, just a short walk from Parliament Hill and the Congress Center, and the staff are experienced working with clients of all different ethnicities and hair types. I can highly endorse the services of Robbie, George, and all the staff of Salon Niccio. They do incredible work and I’ve never seen any of their clients look less than amazing. As I’ve sit under cap and foil, I’ve witnessed some incredible transformations take place and some uber- glamorous women emerge. But they’re also the perfect choice for someone like me, who has an erratic schedule, needs to look polished and pulled together, and needs stylists who really appreciate my low- maintenance lifestyle.

Wow! I love your new hair! The salons I have gone to have been stuck up and not much consultation. I dont need anything too high end but I def need something I can maintain. Thanks for the review! I am curious to check them out!

Reply

Vanessa

7/11/2013 02:31:53 am

Thanks Bonnie! I knew this would appeal to a busy gal like you!

Reply

Melanie

7/11/2013 02:22:05 am

Hi Vanessa, Great post! Great to see blogs about local companies especially one I actually know:)
Robbie & George are my favorite duo!! After moving to Ottawa, I spent years going to one hair salon after another and was always disappointed. Mainly because I didn't know what would look good on me, and the stylist wouldn't even suggest something for fear I wouldn't like it! Then a friend of mine recommended I try Salon Nicco and am so glad I did! The staff are great and I know I can go in NOT looking so great and by the time I leave they will have me looking and feeling fabulous!

Reply

Vanessa

7/11/2013 02:33:21 am

Exactly - I spent 7 years salon hopping in Ottawa until I found them! I hate when other salons won't offer suggestions when I ask for their help and ideas. I need expert assistance!

Really nice cut & color, Vanessa!! You're absolutely right that travel can really affect our hair (my stylists has gotten used to the thought that on the road I use whatever shampoo is at hotels, but still cringes at that...). And you can't underestimate the value of a trusted hair guy. Glad you found your salon! :)

Reply

Vanessa

7/11/2013 12:28:12 pm

I never thought about the effects of using the hotel shampoo - I do travel with my favourite shampoo, but just a tiny bottle and I always depend on the hotel brands to get through a trip.